The presence of gulls in landlocked areas like Colorado often surprises visitors and long-time residents alike. The common assumption is that these birds, frequently referred to as “seagulls,” belong exclusively to coastal environments. However, these adaptable flyers are a common sight across the state, soaring over parking lots, fields, and major reservoirs. Their consistent presence in an inland state confirms that the birds are not merely lost individuals, but are successfully integrating into the local ecosystem. The reality is that these animals thrive by exploiting the unique resources available in the interior of the continent.
Gulls vs. Seagulls: Clarifying the Terminology and Presence
The term “seagull” is a popular misnomer, as no species is officially named that; the correct scientific grouping is the family Laridae, or simply “gulls.” These birds are highly adaptable, and many species are not restricted to saltwater environments, frequently nesting or feeding far from any ocean. Gulls found in Colorado are generally a mix of transient visitors and established populations, demonstrating their flexibility regarding habitat. They are common sights across the Front Range, often congregating around large bodies of water or urban centers. This widespread occurrence confirms that their presence is a regular feature of the state’s avifauna.
Specific Species Found in Colorado
Colorado hosts a variety of gull species, with the most common being the Ring-billed Gull, the California Gull, and the Franklin’s Gull. The Ring-billed Gull is perhaps the most abundant and widespread of the inland gulls, often found year-round in the state. The state also sees occasional sightings of less common species, known as vagrants.
Common Colorado Gull Species
- The Ring-billed Gull (Larus delawarensis) is a medium-sized bird identifiable by the distinct black ring encircling its yellow bill in adult plumage.
- The California Gull (Larus californicus) is slightly larger and is confirmed to breed in Colorado, establishing nesting colonies on islands in lakes and marshes. Adults have a dark gray back, a yellow bill with a red spot on the lower mandible, and green-yellow legs.
- The Franklin’s Gull (Leucophaeus pipixcan) is a smaller, highly migratory species that breeds in the prairie marshes of the northern Great Plains. It is primarily a transient visitor, distinguished by a black head and a rosy pink tint during the breeding season.
- The Herring Gull (Larus argentatus) is one of the larger gulls found in the state, often appearing more gray than the others.
The Inland Habitat: How Gulls Thrive Far From the Ocean
Gulls maintain a strong presence in Colorado by capitalizing on the state’s significant freshwater resources and the abundant food sources created by human development. Large man-made reservoirs and lakes, such as those along the Front Range, effectively mimic the expansive, open waters of coastal environments. These artificial habitats provide the necessary space for gulls to rest, bathe, and form the large communal roosts they prefer.
These birds are highly opportunistic omnivores, and their diet in Colorado is far removed from a typical marine menu. Gulls have successfully adapted to forage on insects stirred up by agricultural equipment in farm fields, earning the California Gull the nickname “bug eater.” They also rely heavily on human refuse, congregating in large numbers at landfills and wastewater treatment plants, which offer a predictable and concentrated food supply.
Colorado is situated along major North American flyways, making it an important stopover and wintering location for migratory gull populations. Rather than flying thousands of miles farther to the Pacific or Gulf coasts, gulls often choose to winter in Colorado where food and open water are reliably available. This strategy conserves the energy that would be expended on a longer migration, allowing them to thrive far from the sea.